Jacob Lees joined the Hobart and William Smith community during the summer of 2023. He's in his second season coaching the defensive line after coaching the outside linebackers in his first season. In addition to coaching, Lees also serves as the HWS director of recreation, intramurals and fitness, overseeing the operation of Bristol Field House.
Last season, Lees mentored all-conference lineman Dante Randle. His linemen played a big role in a Hobart defense that ranked among the best in the nation in scoring defense (4th, 11.4 ppg), fumbles recovered (17th, 11) and red zone defense (21st, .643). During the 2023 season, Lees worked with a pair of all-conference linebackers, helping the Statesmen earn a berth in the ECAC Chapman Bowl.
Lees is a familiar name in Liberty League circles, bringing more than a decade of coaching experience in the conference to the Boswell Field sideline. He joined the Statesmen following four years as the defensive coordinator at St. Lawrence. His 2021 Saints led the Liberty League against the run (94.8 yds/g) and ranked second in sacks (22) and third in defensive pass efficiency (104.1).
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Before his time in Canton, Lees spent a decade on the coaching staff at Rochester, including five as defensive coordinator. He directed the development of 24 All-Liberty League picks, one Academic All-American, and one AFCA All-American.
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Lees has also coached at Buffalo State, Hamilton and Utica. He earned an associate’s degree from Alfred State, a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State and a master’s degree from St. Lawrence.
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